In a recent government meeting, city council members approved a comprehensive budget totaling $210,315,090.03 for the upcoming fiscal year, with significant allocations across various departments. The budget was passed with a majority vote, despite some dissent from a few councilors.

The meeting began with the approval of the City Council's personal services budget of $240,529, followed by a unanimous vote for other expenses totaling $2,500. The Mayor's budget was also approved, amounting to $405,608, which included personal services of $380,608 and other expenses of $25,000.

Legal services received a substantial allocation of $594,149, while the City Clerk's budget was set at $503,951. The Chief Administrative and Financial Officer's budget was approved at $209,955, and the Accounting Department received $734,297.

Public safety budgets were notably significant, with the Police Department allocated $13,700,423 for personal services and $963,934 for other expenses, while the Fire Department's budget totaled $12,909,658. The total public safety budget reached $26,901,015, reflecting no cuts from previous years.

Education funding was also a focal point, with Methuen Schools receiving $104,724,100, and the Greater Lawrence Technical School allocated $5,148,116. The total education budget was confirmed at $110,346,662.

Public Works saw a budget of $8,131,497, which included a contentious discussion regarding a proposed $100,000 cut from other expenses, ultimately resulting in a revised total of $1,237,970 for that line item.

The meeting concluded with the approval of the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund, totaling $17,933,728, and a discussion on the potential impact of the budget on local tax bills, which is projected to increase by approximately $229 for an average home valued at $500,000.

Overall, the budget reflects a commitment to maintaining essential services while addressing the financial realities faced by the city. The council's decisions indicate a focus on fiscal responsibility, with historical data supporting budgetary allocations across departments.